A. Academic CV
Academic CVs are used for academic applications and have a distinctive format. They are relatively long with more
detail of academic achievements and experiences. Compared to other CVs, academic CVs tend to focus more on
publications, the candidates’ research activities and funding awarded. Generally, this format is not appropriate for use
outside academia. See attached template example (Template academic).
DOS
DON’TS
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Tailor your academic CV for every application
Analyse the job description and specification, if
available
Highlight your academic achievements and
research interests
Outside interests are unlikely to be relevant
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Don’t list inaccurate information
Don’t lie about your skills, abilities or achievements
Don’t forget to tell your references about your
application, so they are not surprised when somebody
calls them
B. Chronological CV
A chronological CV is characterised by listing one’s work history. The jobs are listed in reverse chronological order with
the current or most recent job, first. Education, skills, and other relevant information are listed after your experience.
In Denmark the chronological CV is the most common CV format and gives the employer an overview of which jobs
you have held, where and when. Click on this link to view template example.
DOS
DON’TS
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Focus on work history, research experience,
education etc.
Table list in reverse chronological order
Be more specific than you think necessary
Thorough research so you understand how your
expertise matches the employer’s needs
Mention your personal interests, what you do in
your spare time, with concrete examples
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Don’t write too academically - write with clarity
Do not use the academic CV format to apply for nonacademic jobs
Don’t forget to proofread
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C. Skills-based CV
The skills-based CV focuses on your transferable skills and experience, rather than job titles, companies, and how long
ago you got the experience. This format is especially suitable if you are looking for a career change, if you have a
fragmented career or if you would like to put emphasis on specific skills. The skills-based CV promotes your skills and
achievements in three to six skill headings. Click on this link to view template example.
DOS
DON’TS
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Focus on skills
Focus on tasks and business value
Your CV needs to present strong evidence that
you fulfil the job requirements
Avoid too much information
Don’t make your resume too long
Don’t keep the same CV for more than 3 years. Reformat and refresh it every now and then